Foreign body in alimentary tract

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Foreign body in alimentary tract
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Dysphagia, vomiting, abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding
Complications	Perforation, infection, obstruction
Onset	Sudden, after ingestion of foreign object
Duration	Variable, depending on the object and location
Types	N/A
Causes	Accidental or intentional ingestion of foreign objects
Risks	Children, psychiatric patients, prisoners
Diagnosis	X-ray, endoscopy, CT scan
Differential diagnosis	Gastroesophageal reflux disease, peptic ulcer disease, esophageal stricture
Prevention	Avoidance of small objects, supervision of children
Treatment	Endoscopic removal, surgery
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Good with prompt treatment, but complications can occur
Frequency	Common in children, less common in adults
Deaths	N/A

Foreign Body

Foreign Body in Alimentary Tract

The presence of a foreign body in the alimentary tract refers to the ingestion or insertion of an object or substance that is not meant to be digested by the human body. This condition can affect individuals of all ages, but it is most commonly observed in children, who may swallow objects out of curiosity, and in elderly individuals, who may accidentally ingest objects due to dental issues or confusion. The types of objects that can become foreign bodies in the alimentary tract vary widely, including, but not limited to, coins, batteries, bones, toys, and food boluses.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms of a foreign body in the alimentary tract can vary depending on the size, shape, and location of the object. Common symptoms include pain, vomiting, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), and abdominal distension. In severe cases, the presence of a foreign body can lead to more serious conditions such as perforation of the gastrointestinal tract, infection, and intestinal obstruction. Diagnosis of a foreign body in the alimentary tract typically involves a combination of patient history, physical examination, and imaging studies. X-rays are commonly used to identify metallic objects, while endoscopy can be utilized to visualize and sometimes remove non-metallic objects.

Management and Treatment

The management and treatment of a foreign body in the alimentary tract depend on the nature and location of the object, as well as the presence of any complications. Many ingested objects can pass through the digestive system without the need for medical intervention. However, objects that are sharp, large, or have the potential to release harmful substances (such as button batteries) require prompt medical attention. Treatment options include:

• Endoscopic removal: An endoscopy can be performed to remove the foreign body if it is located in the esophagus, stomach, or upper part of the small intestine.
• Surgery: Surgical intervention may be necessary if the object has caused complications such as perforation or obstruction.
• Observation: In some cases, if the object is small and not expected to cause harm, a "watch and wait" approach may be adopted, with follow-up imaging to ensure the object passes through the digestive system.

Prevention

Prevention of foreign body ingestion or insertion involves educating caregivers and patients about the risks associated with small objects, particularly in environments with young children. Regular checks for hazards and educating children about the dangers of putting non-food items in their mouths are key preventive measures.

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